Self-Securing Clip

ABSTRACT

A self-securing clip comprises a first clip member having a first end and a second end; and, a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end. The first ends of the clip members are biased toward and engaging one another, and the second ends of the clip members are biased away from one another. Gripping members on the first ends of the first and second clip members engage one another when the clip is closed so that the first and second clip members are disposed substantially parallel to one another. The clip may be attached to the surface of a fixture so that a first article may be attached to the second clip member, and a second article may be secured between the gripping members.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/765,581 filed Feb. 6, 2006.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains to improvements in the design and/or construction of a self-securing device, which is equipped for securing an article to a surface of another article.

Presents or gifts are often given to someone including a card and/or a fanciful decoration. In the case of a gift wrapped in a box a card may be presented separately or taped to the box. Often a bow that is taped to the box may be used to simultaneously tape a card to the box. In any case, the card is often misplaced or lost if not attached to the gift, or the card may not be adequately secured to the gift by the tape on a bow. In addition, gifts may be presented in a “gift bag” that holds the gift and decorative tissue paper. The gift card is typically placed within the bag for presentation to the recipient; however, such an arrangement may be cumbersome in assembly and presentation. The card may not fit within the bag with the decorative tissue, and then fall out during presentation. For example, a larger than normal card may be presented that simply is not matched with the bag relative to size.

Accordingly, a need exists for an apparatus, system or method for attaching one or more articles to a gift package and/or bag. In more general terms, such a device may not be limited to gift packages and/or bags. Such a device may used to secure at least two related articles to a supporting surface. Related is intended to mean that the two articles have some logical connection to one another for example in subject matter or theme.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A self-securing clip comprises a first clip member having a first end and a second end; and, a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end. The clip also comprises a means, positioned between the first clip member and the second clip member, for biasing the second ends of the first clip member and second clip member away from one another, and for biasing the first ends of the first clip member and the second clip member toward one another.

A first gripping member is attached to the first end of the first clip member and extends toward the second clip member. A second gripping member is attached to the first end of the second clip member and extends toward the first clip member, and the first gripping member and second gripping member engage one another when the clip is in a closed position. In addition, when in a closed position, the first clip member and second clip member are disposed substantially parallel with respect to each other.

The invention also comprises a means, positioned on an outside surface of the first clip member or second clip member, for securing the clip to a surface of a first article; and, a means, positioned on an outside surface of the second clip or first clip member, for securing a second article to the clip and supported on the first article.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the clip in a closed position.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the clip in an open position.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the clip.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the clip in a closed position.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the clip in an open position.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the clip in an closed position

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the clip attached to a gift bag and a bow aligned for attachment to the clip.

FIG. 8 a perspective view of the clip attached to a gift bag and a bow attached to the clip.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an inside surface of a clip member.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an inside surface of a clip member.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The self-securing clip 10 depicted in FIG. 1 includes a first clip member 11 pivotally connected to the second clip member 12. The first clip member 11 includes a first end 11A and a second end 11B. Similarly, the second clip member 12 includes a first end 12A and second end 12B. The embodiment illustrated herein includes a trunnion and pin assembly 17 pivotally connecting the first clip member 11 to the second clip member 12; however, the present invention is not limited to such an assembly. Other mechanisms, known to those skilled in the art, may be used so that the clip members 11 and 12 pivot with respect to one another. The clip 10 is preferably fabricated from a rigid plastic material but other known materials may be used.

In addition, the shape of the clip members 11 and 12 may vary according to any desired functional or ornamental design. For example, the shape of an embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, includes rounded first ends 11A, 12A transitioning to rectangular-shaped second ends 11B, 12B, wherein the first end 11A, 12A has a curvilinear edge and the second ends 11B, 12B have a rectilinear edge. With respect to FIG. 10, many gift bows 35 and/or other fanciful articles or novelty items have a rectangular adhesive support member 36. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 10, rectilinear second ends 11B, 12B will mate or match the bow supports, which may provide adequate support to hold the article on the clip 10.

A biasing means 20 is positioned between the clip members 11 and 12 towards the respective second ends 11B and 12B. The biasing means 20 may be a spring-loaded mechanism that biases the second ends 11B and 12B away from one another and the first ends 11A and 12A towards each other. In this manner when the second ends 11B and 12B are urged towards one another the first ends 11A and 12A are separated from one another, opening the clip 10 for receiving an article.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the clip 10 may be secured to an article while holding or supporting other items on the clip 10. A securing means 21 is affixed to an outside surface of the first clip member 11 so the clip 10 may be attached to another item or article. The securing means 21 may take the form of any acceptable device or material that may be affixed to the clip member 11 and support the clip 10 on another article, such as a foam tape, carpet tape, a magnet or hook and loop mechanisms (Velcro®), etc. The securing means 21 on the first clip member 11 may be used to affix the clip 10 to another article, such as a gift bag 23, refrigerator, bulletin board, locker or any other device to which the self-securing clip 10 may attach.

A securing means 22 is also affixed to an outside surface of the second clip member 12. The securing means 22 on the second clip member 12 typically will take the form of a foam tape layer, but may include other securing mechanisms identified above. The securing means 21, 22 on the respective clip members 11, 12, is a foam or carpet tape having a tacky, adhesive surface as shown in the illustrated embodiments. Accordingly, a protective layer 24 is applied to a surface of the securing means 21, 22 to protect it from contamination before use. When ready for use the protective layer 24 is pealed from the securing means 21, 22 as shown in FIG. 2.

The securing means 21, 22 on the first clip member 11 or second clip member 12 respectively are used to attach or support any article as selected by a user to the clip 10. By way of example as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the self-securing clip 10 is used on a gift bag 23. The securing means 21 on the first clip member 11 attaches the clip 10 to a surface of the bag 23 and the securing means 22 on the second clip member 12 is used to attach or affix a ribbon 25 to the clip 10 and bag 23. A gift card 24 is secured between the first clip member 11 and clip member 12. The invention is not intended to be limited to use in connection with a gift bag but may be used with any articles selected by a user. For example, the clip 10 may be secured to a wall, door, bulletin board, locker or other fixtures, wherein the article attached to the second clip member 12 is related in subject matter or theme to a card or other article secured between clip members 11 and 12.

In an embodiment the securing means 21 is adapted to take on the same configuration or shape of the first clip member 11 and second clip member 12. With respect to FIGS. 1 through 3, the securing means has a rounded end (or curvilinear edge) that transitions to a rectangular end (or rectilinear edge), similar to the shape of the clip members 11, 12. Described in another manner, the clip members 11, 12 respectively have edges 31, 32 that outline a shape of clip members 11, 12. The securing means 21, 22 having edges 41, 42 that are coextensive with the edges 31, 32 of the clip members 11, 12 defining a shape of the securing means 21, 22 similar to that of the clip members 11, 12. In this manner, the clip 10 provides a maximum amount of surface area of the securing means 21, 22 that is supported by the clip members 11, 12.

When the clip 10 is attached to a substantially vertical surface, the clip members 11 and 12 should be positioned with respect to one another to hold an item so it may be viewed or seen. With respect to FIGS. 1 through 5, gripping members 13 and 14 depend from the first ends 11A and 12A of the clip members 11 and 12 toward each other. In a preferred embodiment the gripping members 13 and 14 are of a sufficient length so that when the clip 10 is in a closed position, as shown in FIG. 3, the clip members 11 and 12 are substantially parallel to one another. In this manner, when the clip 10 is affixed to a vertical surface, the gripping members 13 and 14 may hold an item such as a card in a position substantially parallel to the vertical surface, and the item can be more readily seen.

In addition, the gripping members 13 and 14 each depend from the respective ends 11A and 12A of the clip members 11 and 12. These gripping members 13 and 14 have surfaces that provide additional surface area for gripping and holding an item in the clip 10. In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the gripping members have a plurality of consecutive grooves 17 and ridges 18 are formed therein. The grooves 17 on the gripping member 13 are positioned in mating relationship with the ridges 18 on the gripping member 14 when the clip 10 is closed. Similarly, the grooves 17 on the gripping member 14 are positioned in mating relationship with the ridges 18 on gripping member 13 when the clip 10 is closed. The grooves 17 and ridges 18 are provided for stronger gripping power when holding an article.

With respect to FIGS. 9 and 10, one or more ridges may be formed on an underside or inner side of the clip members 11, 12. In an embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the ridges may include a single first ridge 33 that is disposed between the pin and trunion assembly 17 and perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the pins. A second ridge 34 is disposed perpendicular to the first ridge 33. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of first ridges 33 are disposed between the pin and trunion assembly, with the second ridge 34 disposed perpendicular to the first ridges 33. The ridges 33, 34 enhance the structural integrity of the clip members 21, 22 preventing them from breaking or warping.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious that such embodiments are provided by way of example only and not of limitation. Numerous variations, changes and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the teaching of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be interpreted within the full spirit and scope of the appended claims. 

1. A self-securing clip, comprising: a first clip member having a first end and a second end; a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end; means, positioned between the first clip member and the second clip member, for biasing the second ends of the first clip member and second clip member away from one another, and for biasing the first ends of the first clip member and the second clip member toward one another; a first gripping member attached to the first end of the first clip member and extending toward the second clip member; a second gripping member attached to the first end of the second clip member and extending toward the first clip member, and the first gripping member and second gripping member engaging one another when the clip is in a closed position and the first clip member and second clip member are disposed substantially parallel with respect to each other; means, positioned on an outside surface of the first clip member, for securing the clip to a surface of a first article; and, means, positioned on an outside surface of the second clip, for securing a second article to the clip.
 2. The clip of claim 1 wherein the first gripping member has a surface and a plurality of grooves and ridges formed in the surface thereof and the second gripping member has a surface and a plurality of grooves and ridges formed therein wherein the ridges on the first gripping member are positioned in mating relationship with the grooves on the second gripping member, and the ridges on the second gripping member are positioned in mating relationship with grooves on the first gripping member.
 3. The clip of claim 1 wherein the securing means on the first clip member is a tape having a two sides and an adhesive on each side of the tape with a first side of the tape is secured to first clip member and a second side of the tape is covered with a removable protective layer.
 4. The clip of claim 3 wherein the securing means on the second clip member is a tape having a two sides and an adhesive on each side of the tape with a first side of the tape is secured to second clip member and a second side of the tape is covered with a removable protective layer.
 5. The clip of claim 1 wherein either the first clip member or the second clip member has at least one first support ridge formed on an underside of the clip member.
 6. The clip of claim 5 wherein the first clip member or the second clip member upon which the first support ridge is formed has a at least one second support ridge disposed perpendicular relative to the first support ridge on the underside of the clip member.
 7. The clip of claim 1 wherein the first end of the first clip member and the second clip member each have a curvilinear edge that is integral with a rectilinear edge of the respective second end of the first clip member and second clip member.
 8. The clip of claim 7 wherein the first end of the first clip member has an outside surface that is integral coplanar with an outside surface of the second end of the first clip member, and the first end of the second clip member has an outside surface that is integral coplanar with an outside surface of the second end of the second clip member wherein the shape and dimension of an outside surface of the first clip member and second clip member are the same.
 9. The clip of claim 7 wherein the securing means on the first clip member has a curvilinear edge that is coextensive with the edge of the first end of the first clip member and a rectilinear edge that is coextensive with the second end of the first clip member, and the securing means on the second clip member has a curvilinear edge that is coextensive with the edge of the first end of the second clip member and a rectilinear edge that is coextensive with the second end of the second clip member.
 10. A self securing clip and an article secured to the clip, comprising: a first clip member having a first end and a second end; a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end; means, positioned between the first clip member and the second clip member, for biasing the second ends of the first clip member and second clip member away from one another, and for biasing the first ends of the first clip member and the second clip member toward one another; a first gripping member attached to the first end of the first clip member and extending toward the second clip member; a second gripping member attached to the first end of the second clip member and extending toward the first clip member, and the first gripping member and second gripping member engaging one another when the clip is in a closed position and the first clip member and second clip member are disposed substantially parallel with respect to each other; means, positioned on an outside surface of the first clip member, for securing the clip to a surface of a first article; means, positioned on an outside surface of the second clip member, for securing a second article to the clip; and, at least one article secured to the second clip by the securing means.
 11. The clip of claim 10 wherein the first gripping member has a surface and a plurality of grooves and ridges formed in the surface thereof and the second gripping member has a surface and a plurality of grooves and ridges formed therein wherein the ridges on the first gripping member are positioned in mating relationship with the grooves on the second gripping member, and the ridges on the second gripping member are positioned in mating relationship with grooves on the first gripping member.
 12. The clip of claim 10 wherein the securing means on the first clip member is a tape having two sides and an adhesive on each side of the tape with a first side of the tape is secured to first clip member and a second side of the tape is covered with a removable protective layer.
 13. The clip of claim 12 wherein the securing means on the second clip member is a tape having two sides and an adhesive on each side of the tape with a first side of the tape is secured to second clip member and a second side of the tape is covered with a removable protective layer.
 14. The clip of claim 10 wherein either the first clip member or the second clip member has at least one first support ridge formed on an underside of the clip member.
 15. The clip of claim 14 wherein the first clip member or the second clip member upon which the first support ridge is formed has a at least one second support ridge disposed perpendicular relative to the first support ridge on the underside of the clip member.
 16. The clip of claim 10 wherein the first end of the first clip member and the second clip member each have a curvilinear edge that is integral with a rectilinear edge of the respective second end of the first clip member and second clip member.
 17. The clip of claim 16 wherein the first end of the first clip member has an outside surface that is integral coplanar with an outside surface of the second end of the first clip member, and the firs end of the second clip member has an outside surface that is integral coplanar with an outside surface of the second end of the second clip member wherein the shape and dimension of an outside surface of the first clip member and second clip member are the same.
 18. The clip of claim 10 wherein the securing means on the first clip member has a curvilinear edge that is coextensive with the edge of the first end of the first clip member and a rectilinear edge that is coextensive with the second end of the first clip member, and the securing means on the second clip member has a curvilinear edge that is coextensive with the edge of the first end of the second clip member and a rectilinear edge that is coextensive with the second end of the second clip member.
 19. A gift bag having a plurality of articles attached to an outer surface thereof, comprising: a bag having an outer surface and an interior for holding a gift article; a clip having a first clip member having a first end and a second end, and a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end; means, positioned between the first clip member and the second clip member, for biasing the second ends of the first clip member and second clip member away from one another, and for biasing the first ends of the first clip member and the second clip member toward one another; a first gripping member attached to the first end of the first clip member and extending toward the second clip member; a second gripping member attached to the first end of the second clip member and extending toward the first clip member, and the first gripping member and second gripping member engaging one another when the clip is in a closed position and the first clip member and second clip member are disposed substantially parallel with respect to each other; means, positioned on an outside surface of the first clip member, for securing the clip to the outside surface of the bag; means, positioned on an outside surface of the second clip, for securing a first article to the clip; at least one article secured to the second clip by the securing means; and, a gift card secured between the gripping members on the clip wherein the gift card is disposed substantially parallel to the outside surface of the gift bag. 